UMD Media, January 27, 2025
A day after rallies organized by a faction of the TPLF (Tigray People’s Liberation Front) led by Debretsion Gebremichael drew support in various locations, including Mekelle, a larger and more energized crowd gathered Monday in Romant Square. Sunday’s rally, was held at the Marty’s Memorial, also serving as the secretariat of the TPLF, saw expressions of allegiance to the faction and resolutions by Tigray Army leaders.
Monday’s demonstration has been marked by a bigger crowd, a significant increase in youth participation and a shift in rhetoric. Chants from protesters included, “Don’t use the army for your narrow interest,” “We want peace,” and “We want to see the decisions of TIRA implemented.” The public outcry reflects growing frustration over internal divisions within TPLF leadership and the perceived politicization of the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF).
Leadership Struggles Emerge
President Getachew Reda, head of the interim Tigray regional administration (TIRA), expressed his frustrations in an interview Sunday evening with Dimtsi Weyane, accusing security forces of obstructing the implementation of his decisions and those of his cabinet. His vice president, Tadesse Werede, who also commands the TDF, has been nominated by the Debretsion-led faction to replace Getachew Reda as president. This potential change in leadership has amplified internal conflicts, with Tadesse’s dual role as military commander and political figure becoming a source of significant concern.
Civil society groups and segments of the public have condemned the leaders of army for taking sides in the factional disputes, further heightening tensions in the region. Observers fear that Tigray could become a proxy battleground for external actors, particularly Ethiopia and Eritrea.
Broader Geopolitical Implications
Adding to the complexity, Ethiopia is hosting an unprecedented conference this week for Eritrean opposition groups, a move likely to deepen tensions with Eritrea. Known Eritrean activists from Europe, Israel, and North America have reportedly arrived in Addis Ababa to attend the event, which is seen as a direct challenge to the regime in Asmara. This development follows a significant deterioration in relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea after the Pretoria Agreement, which ended the two-year war in Tigray (2020–2022).
Protestors Demand Peace and Accountability
In Mekelle, Monday’s demonstrators emphasized the need for the full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs), and the restoration of Tigray’s territorial integrity. Protesters paraded through the city in cars and trucks, underscoring their demands for peace and stability.
As Tigray navigates its internal political struggles and mounting external pressures, the region’s future remains uncertain. The escalating tensions within the TPLF, combined with broader geopolitical shifts, could have far-reaching consequences for Tigray, Ethiopia, and the Horn of Africa.
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